Close Menu
SUBSCRIBE
Funding

LDARD Agro-Processing Support Applications Open | Apply Now

MoBy No Comments3 Mins Read

The Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD) has officially opened applications for the 2027/2028 Farmer Support Programme, featuring a dedicated stream for agro-processing. This strategic initiative aims to empower smallholder, commercial, and organised producers by providing targeted interventions that enhance value addition, improve food safety, and expand market access within the province.

Who Can Apply

The programme is designed for South African citizens aged 18 and above who are actively involved in agricultural or value-adding activities within Limpopo. Eligible applicant categories include:

  • Smallholder Producers (annual turnover of R50,001 to R1 million).
  • Medium-Scale Commercial Producers (annual turnover of R1,000,001 to R10 million).
  • Large Corporate Commercial Producers (annual turnover of R10,000,001 to R50 million).
  • Organised Producers (annual turnover exceeding R50 million).
  • Prioritised groups, including military veterans, unemployed agricultural graduates, and traditional leaders.

Types of Support Available

Successful applicants may receive comprehensive support tailored to their operational needs. Available interventions include:

  • Training and capacity building in food safety and handling.
  • Food safety and compliance assistance, including Certificate of Acceptability (R638), GMP, GAP, HACCP, and FSSC22000 certifications.
  • Product testing for microbial and nutritional quality.
  • Marketing support, encompassing branding, labelling, and barcoding.
  • Provision of production inputs such as raw materials, preservatives, and packaging.
  • Infrastructure development and support equipment acquisition.

Mandatory Compliance and Documentation

To ensure a successful application, applicants must submit a complete administrative package. Essential documentation includes:

  • Proof of secure tenure, such as a title deed, lease agreement, or Permission to Occupy (PTO).
  • A board resolution or delegation letter authorizing the application on behalf of the legal entity.
  • A signed declaration confirming the applicant is not a public servant (excluding traditional leaders).
  • Financial records, including audited statements, bank statements, or sales records to verify annual turnover.
  • Proof of existing or future market arrangements.

Evaluation and Selection Process

Applications will be rigorously screened by the Local Agricultural Office Administration Committee and the District Screening Committee. Selection is based on a points-based scoring system that evaluates the business case, employment creation potential, sustainability, and alignment with provincial agricultural development goals. Funding is subject to budget availability, and only applications meeting the minimum threshold will be prioritized.

Related opportunity: LDARD Opens 2027/2028 Farmer Support Applications | Apply Now

Applications must be hand-delivered to the Local Agricultural Office where the project is situated. It is the applicant’s responsibility to obtain an official acknowledgement of receipt. The strict closing deadline is 16:30 on Monday, 30 November 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Prospective applicants can download the required documentation via the official LDARD portal:

Stay Updated

Want to stay informed about more farming events, tenders, funding opportunities, and business tips? Follow our updates on the StepApp Network:

Related Posts